ENGLISH
REFERENCE

steamer

n. countable
B1 Intermediate US //ˈstimɝ// UK //stˈiːmɐ// steam·er Archaic Slang

n. a machine or tool that uses hot steam to do a job. You might use one to cook vegetables, clean floors, or remove wrinkles from clothes.

n. a device or container that generates or utilizes steam for a specific purpose, such as cooking, cleaning, or garment care.


SIMPLE

I use a bamboo steamer to cook my vegetables.

CONTEXTUAL

The chef placed the dumplings in the steamer for ten minutes until the dough was translucent and firm.

COMPLEX

While traditional irons are effective for heavy cotton, a handheld steamer is often preferred for delicate fabrics that might be scorched by direct contact with a hot metal plate.

Synonyms
Etymology 1

From steam + -er. The steamer duck or steamer (sense 6.2) is apparently named for its resemblance to a paddle steamer when swimming rapidly.

Etymology 2

From steam tug, rhyming slang for mug (“a gullible or easily cheated person; a stupid or contemptible person”).

Usage

Refers to both small kitchen appliances and large industrial cleaning equipment.

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